Sparkways Early Learning Footscray

Zones of regulation is an approach that we use in our programs to support the development of self-regulation in children. Children learn to notice their own body’s emotional signals as well as learn to read the emotional cues if their peers.
Our educators wear these lanyards to support teaching, these are also available to our families who may wish to adopt this program at home.

Don’t forget to follow our amazing teacher on her Instagram account. Lots of teaching and learning with great tips on teacher wellbeing.

instagram.com

More of teacher Caitlyn’s amazing teaching and learning practices.

Favourite stories! My VIT inquiry project to move to full registration is about storytelling using props. This week we have been brainstorming and graphing our favourite stories, children have loved seeing their thoughts on the wall! Including the children’s voice in your planning on early childhood is an important part of the planning process. I also love my supporting resources to make my display pretty from @topteacher #earlychildhoodeducation #earlychildhoodteacher #childrensbooks #childrensvoices #childrensvoicesmatter #intentionalteaching

The children have been engaging in a sustainability project about how waste affects our natural environment. At present we are researching wastes impact on the ocean. The children have learnt that Once plastic is in the ocean, it decomposes very slowly, breaking into tiny pieces known as microplastics, which can enter the marine food chain and become incredibly damaging to sea life. The main source of ocean plastic pollution is land-based—80% of plastic in the ocean originates on land. Using imaginative play the children have been able to witness first hand the pollution caused by plastics in water. Using a visual format is an effective way for children (and adults) to interpret information.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CyJ0V37hdVI/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Caitlyn is one of our Kindergarten teachers at Billy Buttons. Her high quality programs promote literacy, science, maths, music and movement, indigenous perspectives and sustainability. She has a wonderful instagram page where she shares not only great resources for your classroom and lesson plans but also tips on staying healthy while teaching in both the physical and psychological space of education.

Bear Hunt Bookish Play! This week based on the children’s interests I have set up some Bear Hunt Bookish Play. Bookish play allows children to show their understanding and comprehension, and develop language and literacy skills through play. If you love bookish play @rudienudie_designs and @joykids.original are having a bookish play comp this month. #bookishplay #rudienudiebookishplay #bearhunting #weregoingonabearhunt #literacy #learningthroughplay

As a community of learners we get involved and hope to inspire everyone in our work place to learn when and how to have a conversation that could change a life.
We are here to hear.
Ask R U OK?
Listen
Encourage action
Check in

One of the lessons learnt from COVID is the importance of continuous connection. One of our kindergarten children had major surgery last week and will not be able to attend in person for some time. To ensure they stay engaged and connected with the program and their peers we have delivered a care package with all their favourite activities. And once they are feeling up to it we will engage in some face time and an excursion to their front gate to say hello. This helps bring a sense of belonging to not only Billy Button but the community.